What defines a classic? To me, it's something that I've worn over and over again, season after season. It's a timeless investment piece - a closet staple you absolutely love. More often than not you are willing to spend more on it because it just magically works with everything, you know it will get a lot of use, and it looks and feels amazing on. 

Don't get me wrong - not every "investment piece" needs to break the bank!  The calf hair leopard flats I'm wearing are a fab GAP clearance bin replacement for a similar pair I purchased a couple years ago (that I've recently had to retire). Can't go wrong with real leather super comfy ballet flats  that cost less than $30! Classics don't have to cost an arm and a leg, but it sure is hard to come by at that price point. SO tempted to hoard them if GAP releases more next season! Brands like GAP and J.Crew always have great priced staples - but of course, wait for the sales!

You can get really great quality goods - even designer labels, if you shop smart. I like to buy most big-ticket items secondhand or vintage from reputable consignment shops. My Hermes belt is from Catherine B in Paris - she is the person to go to for anything authentic vintage Hermes and Chanel. The fact that it's reversible (black/tan) means I get two belts for the price of one. I seriously haven't reached for any other belt because I can wear it with almost everything. Other shops I frequent for designer goods are: Nordstrom Rack (where I scored these JBrand jeans), TheOutnet, Barney's Warehouse, Portero, and theRealReal. They've got deeply discounted goodies and items that are no longer available in stores. The way I see it, why should I pay full price for let's say...a Chanel classic flap, when that style has been around for a while and you can surely find it for less from an authentic dealer?

Yes, I buy discounted or mostly bargain-priced. But, I bend the rules a bit sometimes when it comes to pieces that never, ever go on sale or are newer styles. Case in point- my Celine babies. I got extremely lucky coming across my Luggage Tote at Nordstrom and went for the splurge.  The initial investment was huge, I broke out into a cold sweat while making my purchase - but 10 years from now I know it won't seem like it at all. Since it's a recent design and almost impossible to find these days - buying them second hand actually costs more.

What are your closet classics?! 

PS- I'm loving the tie-front tee trend! Grab your favorite button-down tops and give it an easy, relaxed update with a knot.


I'M WEARING:
Shirt: James Perse  //  Denim: J Brand  //  Jacket:  Andrew Marc  //  Flats: GAP  //  Belt: Hermes  //  Purse: Celine  //  Sunglasses: RayBan

SHOP IT: 7 CLOSET CLASSICS